Church in Sleemana

In graveyard (14618), atop hill, on E side of Castletownroche. Cruciform church (long axis E-W) of coursed ashlar limestone construction. Nave (8.8m E - W; 7.6m N - S) lit by large pointed window with perpendicular tracery, flanked by tall lancets; transepts (10.8m N - S; 5.8m E - W) have pointed windows in stepped headed rebate. Chancel to E, has pointed E window with perpendicular tracery; connected to transepts by narrow angled gabled structures set at 45 degree angle between nave and transept (similar to 14708), one to SE used as vestry. Buttresses and hood mouldings throughout. Pinnacled, embattled 2-storey tower (4m sq.) to W, with spire; entrance door in S wall. Built in 1825, capable of accommodating 200 persons, on or near church which was 'much damnified by the late wars but now in repairing' in 1694 (Brady 1863, vol. 2, 104-106); attributed to James Pain (Annesley et al. 1994, 63). In 1882 underwent improvements (Cole 1903, 176). Inscribed stone in external S wall of transept has Latin inscription and date of 1585; according to Grove White (1892-4a, 459) it was removed here from Bridgetown Abbey (14381). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009